3. Maelstrom

Earlier this year, Screamscape reported that "WDI has been given the initial nod to do a little Blue Sky dreaming to determine just how they could transform the Maelstrom ride in the Norway Pavilion into a new Frozen themed attraction concept." Long-time Disney commentator Jim Hill later chimed in on the Touring Plans podcast, saying: "They're already looking at 2014/2015 and where does that fit into our holiday plans. Those of you who love the Maelstrom might want to go visit it...Disney's not going to make the mistake they made with The Little Mermaid again. They're not going to wait 20 years to get a ride...there will be something in the next 18 months." Maelstrom is one of few rides in the World Showcase area of Epcot. The forward/backward flume ride sets guests in Norse viking ships on a cruise through a troll-inhabited swamp, past Nordic polar bears, and into the oil refinement industry of present-day Norway before culminating in a short film on the region's contributions to technology. Frozen is a great fit with the Norway Pavilion, given that Norway was the inspiration for the movie itself. And take a look at these two images - the first of the Norway Pavilion, the second of the kingdom of Arendelle from Frozen:

Reusing the Maelstrom ride system and Norway building would save a huge amount of money in the development of the attraction, but Disney's recent track record suggests that an opening date within 18 months is wildly optimistic.

2. The Legend of Captain Jack Sparrow

The Legend of Captain Jack Sparrow is a walkthrough exzperience based on the Pirates of the Caribbean movies, rather than the original theme park ride. It offers guests a view of key moments from the movies from the perspective of Captain Jack Sparrow. Often derided by fans as little more than a pre-show, the previous occupant of this single-room, "stand and watch" attraction was Journey into Narnia: Prince Caspian. It featured behind-the-scenes footage and a recreation of Aslan's Stone Table Chamber. This had itself replaced another Narnia-themed attraction, Journey Into Narnia: Creating The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. The two Narnia attractions had an average lifespan of just three years. Given that The Legend of Captain Jack Sparrow opened in late 2012, it's probably reasonable to expect that Disney will look to replace it with yet another quick-and-easy movie tie-in in 2016.

1. The American Idol Experience

This one is definitely on the way out. The American Idol Experience will close in January 2015, with no replacement having been announced as yet. Until then, would-be performers can visit auditions throughout the day at Disney's Hollywood Studios where the best of the best are invited to perform in the massive recreation of the show's famous stage in front of park guests, culminating in a finale showdown at the last show of the day. With American Idol now a little long-in-the-tooth, it's no real surprise to see Disney closing down the attraction inspired by the show. We'll have to wait and see whether the theater will be occupied by another show - or whether the more optimistic rumors that it will be demolished to create space for the long-rumored Star Wars Land will come to pass.